But he's still considered one of the best players in the Big Ten Conference.

The Michigan junior wide receiver appeared on the Big Ten's "Players to Watch" list Monday morning in advance of Big Ten media days in Chicago.

The 10-player list published by the league takes the place of a traditional preseason All-Big Ten team -- which the Big Ten does not publish itself.

The 6-foot-5, 230-pounder -- who was named the Big Ten's tight end a year ago -- made 49 catches for 748 yards and six touchdowns a year ago. He spent most of the first half of the season at tight end, but finished the year primarily playing wide receiver.

Funchess was also a preseason All-Big Ten choice in the league's unofficial media poll released last week.

Michigan had two representatives on this list a year ago -- former left tackle Taylor Lewan and current senior quarterback Devin Gardner.